Are you interested in a career in the healthcare industry but aren't sure which path to take? Two options that you might consider are becoming a PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) provider or a Sterile Processing Technician. While both roles are important in the healthcare field, they have distinct differences in terms of job description, education and training requirements, and career outlook. In this blog post, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two professions to help you make an informed decision about your future career.

Introduction

The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and with that comes the need for skilled professionals who can provide specialized care and support. PALS providers and Sterile Processing Technicians are two such professionals who play crucial roles in ensuring the well-being of patients. Let's take a closer look at what each of these roles entails.

What is a PALS and Sterile Processing Technician?

• PALS: A PALS provider is a healthcare professional who is trained in providing advanced life support to pediatric patients. They are responsible for assessing and managing life-threatening conditions in children, including cardiac arrest, respiratory distress, and shock. PALS providers work in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and emergency departments.

• Sterile Processing Technician: A Sterile Processing Technician, also known as a Central Sterile Processing Technician or Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician, is responsible for ensuring that all medical equipment and instruments are properly cleaned, sterilized, and stored. They work behind the scenes in healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and surgical centers, to ensure that all instruments are ready for use in medical procedures.

Difference between a PALS and a Sterile Processing Technician

While both PALS providers and Sterile Processing Technicians play important roles in the healthcare industry, there are several key differences between these two professions:

• Job Responsibilities: PALS providers are primarily focused on providing advanced life support to pediatric patients in emergency situations. They are trained to assess the patient's condition, initiate resuscitation measures, and provide ongoing care until the patient stabilizes or is transferred to a higher level of care. On the other hand, Sterile Processing Technicians are responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and sterility of medical equipment and instruments. They clean, disinfect, and sterilize instruments using specialized equipment and techniques, and ensure that they are properly stored and ready for use.

• Patient Population: PALS providers exclusively work with pediatric patients, which includes infants, children, and adolescents. They are trained to manage the unique challenges that arise when providing care to children. In contrast, Sterile Processing Technicians work with patients of all ages, as their role is primarily focused on ensuring the cleanliness and sterility of medical instruments used in various medical procedures.

• Level of Patient Interaction: PALS providers have direct patient interaction as they are responsible for assessing and managing life-threatening conditions in pediatric patients. They work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses, to provide timely and effective care. On the other hand, Sterile Processing Technicians have minimal direct patient interaction, as their role is primarily focused on ensuring the cleanliness and sterility of medical instruments. They work behind the scenes in the sterile processing department of healthcare facilities.

PALS vs Sterile Processing Technician: Job Description

• PALS: As mentioned earlier, the primary role of a PALS provider is to provide advanced life support to pediatric patients in emergency situations. Their job responsibilities include:

  • Assessing the patient's condition and initiating resuscitation measures if necessary.
  • Administering medications and interventions as per established protocols.
  • Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.
  • Documenting patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes.
  • Participating in ongoing education and training to maintain and enhance their skills.

• Sterile Processing Technician: The job description of a Sterile Processing Technician revolves around ensuring the cleanliness and sterility of medical instruments. Their responsibilities include:

  • Cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing medical instruments using specialized equipment and techniques.
  • Inspecting instruments for damage or defects and arranging for repairs or replacements as necessary.
  • Assembling instrument trays and surgical packs according to established protocols.
  • Properly storing instruments and ensuring their availability when needed.
  • Adhering to infection control and safety guidelines to prevent the spread of infections.

PALS vs Sterile Processing Technician: Education and Training

• PALS: Becoming a PALS provider requires a healthcare professional to complete a PALS certification course, which is typically offered by organizations such as the American Heart Association (AHA). The course covers topics such as pediatric assessment, basic life support, and advanced life support interventions specific to pediatric patients. Healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and paramedics, who work in settings where pediatric patients are likely to be encountered, are encouraged to obtain PALS certification.

• Sterile Processing Technician: The education and training requirements for becoming a Sterile Processing Technician vary depending on the healthcare facility and state regulations. Some healthcare facilities offer on-the-job training programs for individuals interested in pursuing this career. However, many employers prefer candidates who have completed a sterile processing technician training program, which is typically offered by vocational schools or community colleges. These programs cover topics such as infection control, sterilization techniques, and medical terminology.

PALS vs Sterile Processing Technician: Career Outlook and Salary

• PALS: The demand for PALS providers is expected to grow in the coming years, as the need for specialized pediatric care continues to rise. PALS providers can find employment in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and emergency departments. The salary of a PALS provider can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for paramedics and emergency medical technicians, which includes PALS providers, was $36,650 in May 2020.

• Sterile Processing Technician: The demand for Sterile Processing Technicians is also expected to grow in the coming years, as healthcare facilities strive to maintain high standards of infection control. Sterile Processing Technicians can find employment in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities. The salary of a Sterile Processing Technician can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Sterile Processing Technicians was $38,250 in May 2020.

Final Thoughts

Both PALS providers and Sterile Processing Technicians play vital roles in the healthcare industry, albeit in different capacities. If you have a passion for providing life-saving care to pediatric patients, becoming a PALS provider might be the right path for you. On the other hand, if you have an eye for detail and enjoy working behind the scenes to ensure the safety and sterility of medical instruments, a career as a Sterile Processing Technician might be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two professions depends on your interests, skills, and career goals.

Dreambound's programs are available in different places. Check these blogs for a good look at the two vocations, including what you need and tips on how to start:

• PALS in Rhode Island
• Sterile Processing Technician in Rhode Island
• PALS classes near you
• Sterile Processing Technician classes near you